[SavageGlow]

Often referred to as "double jointed" people who can move their joints beyond its normal range have what are called hypermobility. What the gentleman's have in this picture is called Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, the hyper-mobility form, an inherited connective tissue disorder that is caused by defects in a protein called collagen. Symptoms include varying degrees of hyperextensive skin, joint hypermobility, and tissue fragility (including that of vasculature - leading to risk of aortic dilation, aneurysms, or dissection in the severe form).

Most babies and children are naturally very flexible. Many people become less flexible as they grow, but hypermobility continues into adulthood for some, up to about 20% of people. Being "flexible," "bendy," or "double-jointed" is not usually a problem, and for some, like dancers or gymnasts, it is an advantage. Hypermobility that does not cause pain or other symptoms is referred to as "asymptomatic joint hypermobility" and does not need to be treated. The problem occurs when joints are not just hypermobile but are also unstable. Joint instability occurs when the bones of a joint aren't held in place securely. This can lead to joint subluxations, dislocations, sprains, and other injuries. Joint instability can cause both acute and chronic pain and interfere with daily life.

[Mr.NoCredit]

That photo!

Great post!!

[kellyhound]

Cringe!